Dudley Zoo howler monkeys head to France

Zoo keepers have said au revoir to two monkeys who are starting a new life across the Channel.

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Black howler monkey brothers Arie and Becks have left Dudley Zoo to live at Zoo du Bassin d'Arcachon, in France

Black howler monkey brothers Arie and Becks, who were both born at Dudley Zoo, have gone to live at Zoo du Bassin d'Arcachon, in France.

Six-year-old Arie and Becks, aged five, will join the French collection and could go on to father youngsters of their own in the future.

Dr David Beeston, the zoo's registrar and research co-ordinator, said: "The brothers were very popular at Dudley and were much photographed by visitors.

Black howler monkey brothers Arie and Becks have left Dudley Zoo to live at Zoo du Bassin d'Arcachon, in France

"The males could potentially join a breeding programme over there and it would be wonderful to hear they had offspring of their own one day."

The brothers left Dudley Zoo on Wednesday and travelled to France by road and ferry with a specialist animal transport firm.

Black howler monkeys are known for their iconic 'howl' call, which can be heard by humans up to 5km away. The primates have a special voice box and pouch in their throats that amplifies the sound, which enables groups to keep in touch with each other.